I have been on campus as the new Senior Associate Dean of Ross University School of Medicine (Ross) on the Dominica Campus for approximately 30 days and I would like to share some impressions and expectations. First I am very proud to join the Ross community and serve as its leader on Dominica. I also believe that with great privilege comes great responsibility to our students, faculty, staff, and to Dominica. To that end, I will be placing emphasis on two initiatives: “Professionalism” and a “Healthy School” environment. Professionalism has to do with faculty members modeling that behavior for our students. A healthy campus means we have to be careful about security, alcohol and drugs, which are issues on every campus in the world. More details about these initiatives will follow in later communiques. In the meantime please remember at all times that you represent Ross University School of Medicine.
A recent event revealed to me that I am in a great place and that I am lucky to be a part of this institution. I was impressed by the White Coat Ceremony, which was outstanding in planning and execution, with every part of the university, from housekeeping, facilities, staff, and security shining brightly for our first semester students, their families and friends. The participation of our faculty at all levels was above what might have been expected, which demonstrated to me a true commitment to the success of our students. Moreover, I was gratified to hear the positive comments of parents, and those of our guests from the Dominican government.
Finally, I want to say thanks to all the unsung heroes who may think this email does not refer to them. Let me assure you that it does. We are all part of this incredible entity called ROSS and it takes all of us to move in a positive direction. Remember, no one is invisible, we all count.
William Lynn Weaver, MD, FACS, is Senior Associate Dean for RUSM’s Dominica campus.